Asteroid-hunter gear picker

Want to see an asteroid with your own eyes? Answer five quick questions and we'll suggest the types of telescopes, binoculars and accessories that can show bright asteroids like Hygiea — with links to browse current options.

Disclosure: Product links go to Amazon search results. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. We suggest types of gear rather than specific models, and we don't list prices — check current prices and reviews on the retailer's page. Learn more.

Hygiea reaches about magnitude +9.1 to +10.2 at opposition — a 100 mm (4-inch) telescope is the usual minimum, and giant binoculars may show it at its best. Any asteroid looks like a star; you'll need a chart or app and two nights to watch it move.

1/5 What's your budget?

Under $250$250 – $600$600 – $1,500$1,500+

2/5 How much experience do you have?

Total beginnerI can find a few constellationsI've used a telescope before

3/5 What are your skies like?

City — bright, few starsSuburbs — Milky Way faint or hiddenDark rural skies

4/5 How do you want to hunt asteroids?

See them with my own eyesPhotograph them movingHave the gear find them for meA bit of everything

5/5 How portable does it need to be?

Grab-and-go / travelFits in a carMostly backyard use

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How the picker works

Your answers filter a list of common telescope, binocular and imaging categories by budget band, then rank them by how well they suit your experience, sky conditions, how you want to hunt asteroids and your portability needs. Budget bands are rough guides only; prices vary by retailer and change often. Recommendations are general guidance, not professional advice.